How to keep your mobile battery powered in an emergency

Smartphone batteries are a finite resource, however, so below are some steps users can take to preserve remaining battery life in between recharges.

Alternatively, phone battery conservation apps are available for Google and Apple smartphones that turn off many of these services automatically.

Phones can also be charged via USB connections from laptop computers - assuming the computer was charged when the power went off - and with portable batteries produced by companies such as Mophie, PADACS and Samsung.

1. Turn off wi-fi and Bluetooth connectivity: If your phone has a sufficient mobile data connection, turning off these extra connections can save power.

2. Turn off 4G connection: Smartphones often use more battery power connecting to the 4G network. If you don't need the speed boost, turn it off. Google Android users can select a different Network Mode in settings, Apple users can flick the virtual switch in Network settings.

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Comments on this story

Pete of Gold Coast Posted at 5:29 PM January 28, 2013

As some have mentioned, get a car charger. I can't believe this article did not mention the most obvious option. We're in Queensland and currently have an ipad for news, an iPhone and a Nokia for communicating with the world, all powered from the car. We alternate charging the devices. We've had phone and Internet access by hot spotting from the phones to the ipad.

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